Natural sleep cues part 3 - secret baby sleep cues you may be missing

Secret baby sleep cues

While some babies show us all the classic signs like yawning, eye-rubbing and ear pulling, others may be more subtle or show hardly any sleepy cues. In part 3 of my blog on tiredness cues, we explore alternative sleep cues – the signals that may not be traditional (or obvious!) but are equally significant in guiding you through the world of baby sleep. Sleep coaching is more successful once we have learned your little one's sleep cues.

Body language says it all

When traditional signs like yawning and eye-rubbing are absent, pay attention to your baby's overall body language. A baby preparing for sleep might display calm and relaxed movements, indicating that they're ready to settle down.

Fussiness and irritability

Instead of waiting for the classic signs of tiredness, watch your baby's behaviour for fussiness or irritability. These subtle expressions may be showing you a need for rest, making it the right time for sleep.

Changes in facial expression

Some babies show us their sleepiness through changes in facial expression. Look for softer expressions, drooping eyelids, or quieter and calmer body language as indicators that your baby is ready to wind down for a while. It can be helpful to have your sleep coach observe your baby and bedtime/naptime routine when undertaking a sleep training programme.

Less interest in their surroundings

If your baby becomes less interested in what's going on around them, it could be a sign that they are getting ready for sleep. Paying less attention may be their way of letting you know that they need a quieter environment.

Activity level goes down a notch

While some babies become more active when tired, others do exactly the opposite. Becoming less active can be an alternative sleep cue, showing you that your baby is getting ready for a nap or bedtime.

Sucking on their fingers or thumb

For some babies, self-soothing behaviours like sucking on fingers or thumbs become more obvious when they are ready for sleep. Recognising these subtle self-soothing cues can guide you in getting the bedtime or nap time routine started. This can also be part of their sleep mantra- have a look at my blog for more information on baby sleep mantras.

Changes in their breathing pattern

Pay attention to your baby's breathing pattern. A slower, more rhythmic breathing could mean they are moving into a more relaxed state, suggesting that sleep is needed soon.

Top tips

Whether your baby shows obvious, or less obvious sleepiness cues, here are my top tips in what to do once your baby has taught you their own personal cues!

Create a calming bedtime routine

Start a consistent bedtime routine that includes soothing activities and a calming environment. It doesn't matter what order your specific steps are in (although I do advise distancing milk from sleep), or what time you start your routine, a predictable routine in the same order can trigger and help your baby transition to sleep. You can start this anytime, I usually say from around 6 weeks of age.

Experiment with sleep associations/sleep props

Introduce comforting sleep associations, such as a favourite blanket or gentle lullabies, to create a positive sleep environment. These associations/sleep props can become alternative cues for your baby, letting them know that it's time for sleep. Just be sure that whatever you introduce is safe for your baby's age and stage

Observe patterns and adapt your routine and schedule

Every baby is unique, and alternative sleep cues vary hugely from one baby to another. Pay attention to your baby's individual patterns and adjust your approach accordingly. Flexibility is key in responding to their cues effectively.

In the ever changing landscape of baby sleep coaching and training, alternative sleep cues open up a world of possibilities for parents. By being attuned to your baby's individual expressions and adapting your approach, you can create a bedtime routine that is both responsive and effective. Embrace the subtleties, experiment with different cues, and watch as your baby guides you through the beautiful journey of restful sleep. Sweet dreams await!